Top 50 Questions: Privacy & Entry by Landlord in Northwest Territories

Privacy & Entry by Landlord Northwest Territories published June 26, 2025 Flag of Northwest Territories
Can my landlord enter my rental unit without my permission?
No, unless it's an emergency or you have given consent as per the Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Act.
How much notice must my landlord give before entering?
Your landlord must give at least 24 hours written notice before entry, except in emergencies.
What reasons can my landlord enter my unit for?
Reasons include repairs, maintenance, showing to prospective tenants or buyers, or emergencies.
Can my landlord enter for emergencies without notice?
Yes, landlords can enter without notice during emergencies like fires, floods, or medical crises.
Does my landlord need my consent to enter for repairs?
No, if proper notice is given and repairs are needed, your consent is not required.
When can a landlord enter my unit to show it to new tenants or buyers?
They can enter between 8 am and 8 pm with at least 24 hours written notice.
Can I refuse entry if I don’t like the timing?
You can discuss with your landlord, but if proper notice and legal reasons are given, you generally cannot refuse.
Can my landlord enter if I’m not home?
Yes, with legal notice, entry is allowed even if you are not home.
Can my landlord enter frequently for inspections?
No, inspections must not be excessive or meant to harass you.
How do I know if a notice of entry is valid?
It must be in writing, state the reason, date, and time of entry, and give at least 24 hours’ notice.
Can my landlord enter for pest control?
Yes, with proper 24-hour written notice for required maintenance like pest control.
What if my landlord keeps entering without notice?
You can file a complaint with the Rental Officer of the Northwest Territories. Visit Rental Office.
Are there hours when my landlord cannot enter?
Yes, entry is only allowed between 8 am and 8 pm unless for emergencies or with your consent for other times.
Can my landlord enter to take photos?
Yes, for purposes like advertising, but they must still provide proper notice and reason.
What is considered an emergency?
Emergencies include situations like fire, flooding, or threats to tenant safety.
Can my landlord enter for an inspection at any time?
No, inspections require written notice and must not be excessive.
Does my landlord need to give the notice in writing?
Yes, all notices of entry must be written.
Can my landlord do surprise visits?
No, except in emergencies or with your permission.
Can I ask my landlord not to enter certain rooms?
You may ask, but the landlord can enter any part of the rental unit with valid notice and reason.
Do I have to be present when my landlord enters?
No, you do not need to be present if proper notice was given.
Can my landlord give notice by text or email?
Written notice is required; check your lease or ask your landlord what forms of delivery are acceptable.
What should a notice of entry include?
Reason, date, time of entry, and must be at least 24 hours in advance.
Can the landlord give me a blanket notice for multiple entries?
No, each entry requires its own written notice stating specific reason, date, and time.
What if the landlord shows up early or late?
They must try to enter at the specified time in the notice; repeated issues can be reported.
Can a landlord bring others with them when entering?
Yes, if necessary (like contractors or prospective tenants) and included in the notice.
What happens if I change the locks?
You cannot change locks without landlord’s permission; doing so can breach your lease.
Can a landlord install security cameras around the building?
Yes, in common areas for security, but not inside your private unit.
Is the landlord allowed to enter for routine cleaning?
Only if it’s in your lease agreement and with proper notice.
Can the landlord come in just to check on the property?
Yes, with proper written notice and reasonable frequency.
What if my lease says the landlord can enter anytime?
The law still requires notice and reason except in emergencies; your lease cannot override the Act.
Can I record the landlord’s entry for my safety?
You may record if you inform those present and it’s for your security; do not violate privacy laws.
What can I do if my landlord enters without proper notice?
Document the incident and consider filing a complaint to the Rental Officer.
Who do I contact to report repeated privacy violations?
Contact the Northwest Territories Residential Tenancy Office.
Where can I find official complaint forms?
See the Application to Rental Officer, Form 7. Download from here.
How do I file a privacy complaint?
Complete and submit Form 7 to the Residential Tenancy Office with details of the incident.
What if the landlord enters when I’m asleep or in the shower?
Landlords should try to respect privacy and stated entry times; raise concerns if boundaries are crossed.
Can my landlord give less than 24 hours’ notice?
Only in cases of emergency; otherwise, at least 24 hours’ notice is legally required.
Can my landlord ask another tenant for permission to enter my unit?
No, permission must come from you, not another tenant.
Does my landlord have to specify the exact time of entry?
Yes, the notice should state both date and specific time of entry.
What is the legislation that covers privacy & entry rights?
The Residential Tenancies Act of the Northwest Territories governs these rules. Read it here.
Who enforces the tenancy rules in Northwest Territories?
The Northwest Territories Residential Tenancy Office is the official tribunal. Link: here.
Can my landlord enter on weekends or holidays?
Entry is allowed between 8 am–8 pm any day with proper notice, unless lease specifies otherwise.
What rights do I have if I feel harassed by landlord’s frequent entry?
You can file a complaint with the Rental Officer for harassment.
Is there a fee for filing a privacy complaint?
No, filing most applications to the Residential Tenancy Office is free.
Can the landlord stay for as long as they want when entering?
No, only as long as is reasonably necessary for the stated purpose.
Can the landlord enter multiple times in a day?
No, unless required for different urgent reasons and with proper notice each time.
Can I refuse entry for non-emergency repairs?
If proper notice is given, you generally cannot refuse.
Is the landlord responsible for my damaged or missing belongings after a visit?
Report damages or theft to your landlord and document it; you may claim through the Residential Tenancy Office or police if necessary.
Can my landlord have a key to my unit?
Yes, landlords are allowed to have a key to provide access as per legal guidelines.
What is Form 7 and how do I use it?
Form 7: Application to Rental Officer is used to report tenancy issues. Find it here. Use it if your privacy rights are violated.
Can a property manager enter for the landlord?
Yes, agents of the landlord may enter if proper notice is given and they’re named in the notice.
Are there exceptions for remote or shared housing?
Rules generally apply to all units; consult your local Rental Office for unique living arrangements.
Where can I get more help or info?
Contact the Residential Tenancy Office for advice, forms, and tenant support.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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